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Summer makeup tips and dupes for upscale brands

Jun 6 2014 12:01 am

Let's face it, ladies. It's difficult, uncomfortable and even expensive to try to maintain a full face of makeup in Charleston's hot summer weather. We'll end up buying special long-wear products by designer brands to fight the humidity's effects, but it's rarely successful.

Instead of buying that extra-expensive makeup this summer, try some of these cheaper dupes. And remember, the best way to save money on beauty products is to use less of them. It may sound scary, but all that heavy makeup in the summer is going to weigh down your face and your budget.

Prime

When the weather heats up, primer is my best friend. It keeps all the powders, shadows, concealers and bronzers in place throughout the day. First, apply a layer of moisturizing sunscreen to your face. Let it dry for about 10 minutes, then apply a thin layer of primer like my personal favorite, Mineral Infused Face Primer by e.l.f. (sold at Target for $6).

Conceal

Warm weather favors the all-natural look, so if you can bear it, hide imperfections with concealer and stay away from powders or heavy foundations. It's an effortless look, and it will save you big bucks.

I once used pricey concealers by Benefit and MAC, but I recently switched to NYX's Full Coverage Concealer ($5, Target and CVS) and I can hardly tell a difference.

Highlight

The fresh-off-the-beach look is rooted in a good bronzer, but that doesn't mean it's splurge-worthy. Some of my favorite dupes for designer versions are Ulta's pressed bronzer powder (about $10), or NYC's bronzer in the Sunny shade ($4). Milani is also a good brand for those who want to add long-lasting shimmer to darker complexions.

Add a touch of hot pink blush to the balls of your cheeks to top off the glow. Revlon's new line of Photoready Cream Blush has some eclectic shades perfect for a summer look for $12.

Lash out

E.l.f.'s Baked Eyeshadow Palette ($10) is an impressive dupe for Sephora's version that retails for about $30. You get 10 sparkling shades, which will last you through the summer if not longer.

For mascara, a personal favorite during the summer is Covergirl's Clump Crusher in waterproof for $8, which will stay in place even after a dip in the ocean.

Reach Abigail Darlington at 937-5906 and follow her on Twitter @A_Big_Gail.

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